750 kilogram saltwater crocodile unveiling marks Melbourne Aquarium rebranding

The $8 million, five-month refurbishment of the Melbourne Aquarium will officially be launched tomorrow (Saturday 21st September), with new Aquarium star Pinjarra, a 50-year-old 750 kilogram saltwater crocodile on display.

The upgraded attraction now features the Croc Lair exhibit, housing the five-metre crocodile, will officially relaunch as SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, joining a global network of conservation-focused aquariums under the Merlin Entertainments' SEA-LIFE brand.

Pinjarra, one of the largest crocodiles in captivity, has lived on a crocodile farm in Rockhampton for over 30 years, having been rescued from flooding. However, prior to relocating to Melbourne he had outgrown that home.

Exhibit Manager Alison Edmunds explains that, in his new location, "he's got his favourite girls and he's a very big animal and unfortunately as his size is getting bigger, he's really outgrowing his ladies.

"He's retired now and living here happily."

A group of Aquarium staff have been given specialist training on how to take care of the crocodile, with Edmunds adding "we've learnt an amazing amount of things about crocodiles and we've got this magnificent state-of-the art aquarium here for him to live in.

"We're going to give him the best life and the best retirement that he could ever hope for."

Edmunds believes it is important to help raise public awareness and safety in natural crocodile habitats, stating "we are incredibly excited to work with Pinjarra given his immense size and unique personality.

"Flying the world famous SEA LIFE flag has allowed us to grow and care for even more underwater species and we look forward to sharing our new world class aquarium experience with both new and loyal visitors."

Themed to reflect the diverse landscape of the Northern Territory, Pinjarra's exhibit features a full 360 degree viewing experience across three spectacular viewing levels, giving visitors a chance to come face-to-face with one of the most feared predators in the world.

Merlin Entertainments Australia and New Zealand Director Edward Fuller says the transition from Melbourne Aquarium to SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium has been a labour of love and the relaunch will be a welcome boost to Melbourne's local tourism industry.

Fuller explains "for more than 13 years, Melbourne Aquarium has been attracting local, interstate and international visitors to our city.

"This latest, multi-million dollar transformation positions the aquarium on a global scale and heralds the way for the continued growth of our strong marine conservation program. It is a very exciting time for us."

For more information go to www.melbourneaquarium.com.au